CARLSBAD, Calif. – The Cal State San Marcos volleyball team went to the mat against No. 3 Concordia on Tuesday night at Pacific Ridge School, challenging the Eagles in every rally. The Cougars eventually dropped three sets to Concordia; 24-26, 22-25 and 16-25.
CSUSM falls to 14-8 while the Eagles move up to 21-1 on the season.
The highlight of the night for the Cougars was their blocking as CSUSM racked up nine total blocks to Concordia's eight. Sophomore
Morgan Willis led the charge five total blocks (4 BA, 1 BS) while freshman
Kristin Parker collected four total blocks (3 BA, 1 BS).
After falling behind 12-4 in the first set, the Cougars charged back to take a 17-16 lead. The teams traded leads until CSUSM reached a set point after a block by the duo of Parker and junior
Jordan Banich. Four consecutive points gave Concordia the 26-24 win.
The intensity continued into the second set until the Eagles sprinted ahead at the 8-7 point, putting together an 8-2 run. The Cougars closed the gap to 21-19, but were unable to overtake Concordia and fell 25-22.
After numerous lead changes in the third set, the Cougars saw the set get away from them as the Eagles clinched the match 25-16.
Hannah Andrews led the Eagles with a match-high 12 kills while Rachel Flynn chipped in 11 kills.
Cougars are back in action Wednesday, Oct. 8 when they travel to Hope International. First serve is at 7 p.m.